WNBA Star Angel Reese Speaks Out on Media Anxiety and Controversies
In a candid revelation, WNBA star Angel Reese has shared her struggles with media interactions, expressing a preference for paying fines over facing reporters. The Chicago Sky player and rival of Caitlin Clark opened up about her fears during the latest episode of her podcast, "Unapologetically Angel."
Reese admitted, "Before a game, I often feel terrified about the media’s questions. Even the most innocent inquiries can be twisted or presented in a misleading way. It raises the question: are you here to start drama or to genuinely ask something?" She emphasized her discomfort with interviews, stating, "Sometimes, I’d rather just take the fine than deal with the media, as it often gets misconstrued. The current media landscape is challenging."
The Journey of a Controversial Figure in Women’s Basketball
Since her standout performance in the 2023 NCAA women’s basketball national championship—where her LSU team triumphed over Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes—Reese has found herself at the center of media scrutiny. Her actions during the game, including a memorable gesture towards Clark, have made her one of the most talked-about athletes in women’s basketball.
As the 2025 WNBA season concluded, Reese faced backlash for candid remarks made to a Chicago Tribune reporter, where she criticized her team’s disappointing 10-34 record. "I’m not settling for the same results we had this year," Reese stated. "We need to bring in top talent. I’m committed to doing what it takes to attract the best players this offseason." She expressed a desire to stay with the team but acknowledged that she might have to explore other options if necessary.
Following the backlash, Reese apologized, clarifying that her words were taken out of context. "I’m frustrated with myself," she said in a postgame conference. "I never intended to undermine my teammates, who have worked hard alongside me. I want to apologize to them for how my comments were perceived. I need to be more mindful of my words because they can be interpreted in many ways."
In response to her comments, Reese received a suspension for the first half of an upcoming game due to "statements detrimental to the team."
Facing Challenges and Support in the WNBA
Earlier in May, Reese was involved in a WNBA investigation regarding derogatory comments directed at her during a game against Clark’s Connecticut Fever. When asked about the investigation, she refrained from sharing specific details but acknowledged the support she received from the league.
"There’s no place for hate in this league," Reese asserted. "I appreciate the support from the WNBA and my team throughout this process. If this can happen to me, it can happen to anyone."
Following the investigation, the league concluded that there was insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations. Reese has previously voiced concerns over racism from Clark’s fans, even claiming that some had sent explicit AI-generated images of her to her family members.
Reflecting on the hostility she has faced, Reese expressed, "Some fans, particularly from Iowa and Indiana, are fiercely loyal to Caitlin Clark, which I respect. However, their behavior can be disrespectful and, at times, racially charged. I’ve encountered instances where AI-generated images of me were shared with my family, which is incredibly distressing."
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Jackson Thompson is a seasoned sports writer for Fox News Digital, with experience from ESPN and Business Insider. He has covered major events like the Super Bowl and NBA Finals and has interviewed legendary athletes.
